Tires are one of the most critical safety components on your vehicle. Tires in good condition provide traction, handling, and a smooth ride. But over time and many miles driven around Scranton, PA, tires will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Knowing how to recognize the signs of worn tires is important for your safety on the road.
Check Your Tread Depth
One of the most important indicators that it's time for new tires is low tread depth. Tires have tread wear indicator bars built into them. When the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch, the wear bars will be flush with the tire tread. You can also check tread depth with a penny - place it in a tread groove with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch and it's time for new tires.
Look for Uneven Tread Wear
Uneven tread wear is another sign your tires may need replacing soon. If you notice the inside or outside of the tread wearing faster than the center, or one side of a tire is wearing faster than the other, have your tires and suspension inspected. Uneven wear can be caused by improper inflation, wheel misalignment, or worn suspension components. Catching uneven wear early can help extend your tire life if the underlying issue is fixed.
Drivers in Wilkes-Barre and surrounding areas should be especially vigilant about uneven tire wear. The hilly terrain and winding roads can put extra stress on tires and suspension, leading to uneven wear if minor problems aren't addressed.
Inspect for Damage
Regularly inspect your tires for any cuts, cracks, blisters, or bulges in the sidewalls. These can be caused by hitting potholes, curbs, or debris on roads. Damage to the tire structure greatly increases the risk of a blowout and should be addressed immediately. If you find any sidewall damage, have a professional inspect the tire to determine if it needs replacement.
Pay Attention to Ride Quality and Tire Pressure
If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel or if the ride suddenly feels rougher and bumpier, your tires may be out of balance or have internal damage. Tires that consistently lose air pressure or need to be filled more often may have a slow leak or more serious damage. Any sudden change in ride quality or air pressure warrants a professional tire inspection.
Consider Tire Age
Even if they aren't worn out, tires that are 6-10 years old should be replaced, regardless of how much tread they have left. Rubber compounds in tires degrade over time, reducing traction and increasing the risk of a failure. Tires that have been on a vehicle for a long time or are a spare that hasn't been used still age and can become unsafe.
If you suspect your tires may need replacement, the experts at Tom Hesser Chevrolet in Scranton, PA can help. Our service department will thoroughly inspect your tires and make a recommendation to keep you safe on the roads. You can use our tire finder to get the right tires for your vehicle. Use our online service scheduler to set up your tire service today.